The effect of resident-tourist interaction quality on destination image and loyalty

Despite the widely recognized core position of local community within tourism, a paucity research has considered how quality interaction between residents and tourists shapes visitors’ image formulation, overall satisfaction, destination loyalty. Building on “zone proximal development” theory concept “the more knowledgeable other,” this study expands recent by showcasing vital role it plays as model antecedent to image-satisfaction-loyalty framework. Data from two studies (n1 = 353, n2 397) conducted in Greece 2019, indicate that positively affects image, which turn satisfaction loyalty, predicting 68% (study 1) 57% 2) variance The findings shed light process visitors develop their knowledge feelings towards destinations via interactions with locals. proposes design activities locals whereby are reinforced. When engage information providers, then likely gain better insights into place bonds Such engagement serves positive feedback loop where greater appreciation destination, contributing sustainable forms development.